Press Release

Independence Blue Cross receives award for corporate philanthropy

Region's leading insurer recognized for its community impact and charitable contributions

Philadelphia, PA - April 28, 2011 - Independence Blue Cross was honored today by the Philadelphia Business Journal for the 2011 Corporate Philanthropy Awards. Independence Blue Cross was recognized as the top regional company in charitable giving and one of the leading extra-large companies in its service to the community.

Independence Blue Cross was at the top of the "Corporate Charitable Contributors" list, which ranks area companies by their monetary support to the community.

Independence Blue Cross also placed second in the "Community Impact Award" for extra-large companies. This capstone award recognizes companies who were generous in cash gifts, volunteerism, and in-kind donations, which are donations of expertise, talents, and products. In 2009, the year for which the award is given, Independence Blue Cross contributed a total of $5.7 million in cash giving, $314,000 in in-kind donations, and 9,800 volunteer hours.

"We're pleased to be recognized for our leadership in corporate giving in the region -this is where we live, work, and raise our families," said Daniel J. Hilferty, Independence Blue Cross president and CEO. "We're proud to contribute to and invest in initiatives that will enhance the health and wellness of the people and communities we serve - whether through monetary support, donation of our services and expertise, and through our employees' generous donation of their time to support local causes."

During its fourth annual Corporate Philanthropy Summit today, the Philadelphia Business Journal recognized companies in four award categories by company size: cash donors, volunteerism, in-kind donations, and community impact. The awards were based on a survey completed by 75 area companies about its corporate giving in 2009 and were ranked by donations on a per employee basis. The publication also listed the top corporate charitable contributors, which ranks the total 2009 local cash donations by each company.

Independence Blue Cross strives to enrich the community through its social mission. To fulfill its commitment to the communities and people it serves, Independence Blue Cross contributes millions of dollars each year to improve access to quality, affordable health care in the region by funding clinics for the uninsured, increasing the supply of nurses, and promoting community wellness. In 2010, through the company's Blue Crew Corporate Volunteer Program, 2,300 volunteers donated more than 6,400 hours of community service by supporting 171 projects.

About Independence Blue CrossIndependence Blue Cross is a leading health insurer in southeastern Pennsylvania. Nationwide, Independence Blue Cross and its affiliates provide coverage to nearly 3.1 million people. For 73 years, Independence Blue Cross has offered high-quality health care coverage tailored to meet the changing needs of members, employers, and health care professionals. Independence Blue Cross is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. More information about Independence Blue Cross is available at www.ibx.com.